A devastating blaze at the well-known Tioga Downs Casino Resort located in Nichols, New York, led to the demise of over two dozen racehorses. A brave individual who endeavored to save these equines has been immediately transported to the Robert Packer Hospital due to sustaining second-degree burns.
Unnamed sources report that the resort’s barn was consumed by flames in the early hours of November 9. The authorities were promptly alerted and upon arrival, they discovered the tragic sight of the deceased animals.
The New York State Police are reportedly treating the fire as a criminal incident rather than an accident. It is suspected that a man named Boyd Fenton, aged 32, may have maliciously initiated the fire. The Pennsylvanian resident was subsequently arrested and faced four serious charges, which comprised:
- Arson in the third degree, a class “C” felony
- Burglary in the third degree, a class “D” felony
- Criminal Mischief in the second, a class “D” felony
- Assault in the second degree, a class “D” felony
Further probing into the matter revealed that Fenton possibly entered the barn and purposely ignited the inferno. He was brought before a judge on November 9 and delivered into the custody of the Tioga Country Correctional Facility.
Quest for Justice by Affected Parties
Authorities are progressing with their investigation to unravel the complete circumstances surrounding the incident. Meanwhile, the New York State Police conveyed their sympathy to those who had lost their animals in this heart-wrenching event.
The New York State Police extend heartfelt condolences to all individuals and families that had to bear the loss of their dear animals in this unfortunate incident.
– Statement by the New York State Police
The reasons for initiating the arson have not been divulged or determined yet.
In response to the tragedy, an online fundraising initiative was set up to aid the horsemen who were bereft of their animals. Alexandra Skowyra, the organizer, made an appeal for people to express empathy towards the victims of the barn fire.
Tioga Downs has become a home to many like us in the community. Every contribution counts. Now, more than ever, this is the time to portray our strength as a Horseman community. Let’s display our ability to extend help during dire times.
– Alexandra Skowyra
The effort has been fruitful, with the campaign surpassing its $50,000 target and collecting $72,158 at present.
Simultaneously, an advocate named Elizabeth Allers has initiated a demand on change.org for Fenton to face charges of animal abuse. Allers stated that the sentence accompanying Fenton’s current charges is minimal, which she deems as unacceptable.
We must act as the voice for the ones unable to express their plight. We urge our local law enforcement and judiciary in Tioga County to uphold their responsibility and prosecute this individual with charges of animal cruelty for each horse that perished, in accordance to New York State legislation.
– Elizabeth Allers
At present, the petition has managed to gather 172 signatures.
